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Finished Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes Parsnips and Beets Recipe

Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips and Beets

A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips and Beets Recipe that serves as a stunning seasonal centerpiece. This dish features earthy, thinly sliced roots arranged in beautiful rainbow rows, simmered in a garlic-thyme infused cream and topped with a golden Gruyère crust. It is a healthy-ish comfort food perfect for holiday tables or as an elegant side to grilled proteins.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 315
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled
  • 2 large parsnips peeled
  • 2 medium beets peeled
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream or 1 cup cream + ½ cup milk
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (or oval) baking dish with a little olive oil.
  2. Slice: Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice all vegetables into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
  3. Infuse: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cream, garlic, and thyme. Simmer for 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Assemble: Arrange the vegetable slices in the prepared dish in vertical, overlapping rows, alternating colors (Sweet Potato -> Parsnip -> Beet).
  5. Pour: Pour the cream mixture evenly over the vegetables. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil.
  6. Cheese: Sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan over the top.
  7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–25 minutes until the top is golden and vegetables are tender.
  8. Rest: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

  • Slicing: Using a mandoline is the most efficient way to ensure the 1/8-inch thickness required for even cooking.
  • Beet Handling: Wear gloves when peeling and slicing beets to avoid staining your hands.
  • Mediterranean Swap: For a lighter version, you can substitute 1/2 cup of the heavy cream with a whisked blend of Greek yogurt and whole milk.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge and add 10 minutes to the covered baking time.